According to reports, Aston Villa are very interested in signing Nottingham Forest forward Brennan Johnson, which is a real concern for the Reds.
The Athletic have reported that Forest face fierce competition to keep the services of Johnson, with Villa said to be extremely interested. Steve Cooper‘s side are said to have ‘genuine concern’ over Villa coming in for the 22-year-old.
The Forest bosses aren’t keen on selling him given he is a homegrown star. However, it would do wonders for their finances and FFP following last season’s transfer spree, given he would represent ‘pure profit’.
Forest, therefore, would only be open to selling Johnson if they receive a bid in excess of £50million.
A bid of £30m has already been rejected this summer, with Brentford submitting what was seen as a ‘tentative’ offer.
It is thought, however, that Villa could represent a real threat, given that they boast a budget supplemented by Europa Conference League qualification.
Forest are concerned about Villa’s interest
The valuation of over £50m placed on Johnson is quite substantial but Forest are in a position where they don’t have to sell.
The valuation is also likely justified given some of the ludicrous fees flying around during this window.
Johnson had success last season, replicating his Championship numbers in the Premier League as Forest stayed up.
Playing all 38 games, Johnson scored eight goals and assisted three; numbers that will no doubt only improve should he move to a better side…such as Villa.
The ‘fantastic’ winger has bags of potential and could offer Villa the option to move Ollie Watkins centrally.
With Villa hoping to push on again next season, and possibly attempt to secure Europa League football, it would be difficult for Johnson to turn down such a potentially positive move for his career.
